Lapland holidays

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Northern lights

From meeting Santa on his home turf, to husky-led sleigh rides, festive fun tops the wish list on our holidays to Lapland.

The home of Christmas

If there’s one place that’s got Christmas all wrapped up, it’s Lapland. Stretching across northern Finland, this Arctic wonderland is Santa’s snowy HQ – with snow-blanketed forests, twinkling log cabins, and furry friends like huskies and reindeer waiting to whisk you on a wintry ride. Plus, you’re in a stellar spot to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. It takes about three and a half hours to swap the UK for snow, and when it comes to booking your Lapland holiday, we’ve got a sleigh-load of options – from flying one-day visits, to three or four-night breaks stuffed fuller than Santa’s sack with snowy fun. And, if you fancy a Christmas to remember, we’ve even got a four-night break departing on 22nd December, so you can wake up to the big day right here.

Winter sports, activities and entertainment

Santa and his elves are the headline act, but Lapland’s winter wilderness is your playground. Whizz along on a snowmobile, glide through frosty forests on a husky or reindeer ride, or strap on snowshoes and crunch through the scenery at your own pace. With clear winter skies and resorts in prime spots above the Arctic Circle, you’ve got a great chance to see the green and purple ribbons of the Northern Lights. For handy tips on what to bring, check out our What to pack for Lapland guide. And when it comes to where you’ll stay, we’ve got options to suit every style – from lively resorts to cosy cabins where Santa might drop by, or glass igloos and Aurora cabins that are perfect for stargazing. If you’re bringing the kids, our SnowClub hotels come with stockings-full of Christmassy activities to keep little ones giggling all day long.

Where we go in Lapland

When it comes to picking your base, we’ve got spots in some of Lapland’s top destinations. Fly into Kittilä and discover Ylläs, Pallas, or Levi – Levi is a favourite for skiers, while Ylläs and Pallas are top picks for winter sports. Flights touching down in Rovaniemi land you in Lapland’s lively capital, with festive markets, top restaurants, and a nightlife scene to rival any European city. Cosy Luosto is nearby, known for its amethyst mines and wide skies for Northern Lights spotting. We also fly to picture-perfect Kuusamo, which opens the door to the likes of Ruka and Saariselka – another prime spot for the Northern Lights. And don’t forget Kajaani, your gateway to Arctic Lakeland. It’s a real-life snow globe with glassy lakes, snow-laden forests, and Santa-approved adventures.

Good to know

Wondering about accessibility or travelling with younger kids? Lapland’s built for snowy fun, but deep snow and icy paths can make getting around tricky for wheelchair users. And, with temperatures dipping to -30°C, we don’t recommend these trips for children under four. For more handy tips, check out our FAQs.

Popular hotels in Lapland

Top things to see and do in Lapland

Shopping

Bargain buys

Souvenirs are omnipresent in Lapland. There are gift shops at all the main tourist attractions and, although it’s possible to blow the budget on cuddly husky teddies and traditional wooden toys, you can also find bookmarks, key rings, and books to remind you of your time in Finland. Rauna Arctic Wildlife Park has really tempting gift shops.

Mid-range buys

Shopping sprees are easily done in Rovaniemi. There are 3 large malls, filled with fashion and beauty stores, on Maakuntakatu and Koskikatu Street. The brands out here are a bit different to those on the UK’s high street, but names like Cubus, Only and Seppala are the equivalents of H&M, Zara and Mango. Prices are pretty reasonable, too – you can get a full outfit for around £100.

Designer buys

Goldsmiths started popping up in Lapland during the gold rush of 1865. There’s a really good one in Santa Claus Village near Rovaniemi. All the designs here are inspired by Lappish culture, like the northern lights and polar bear paw prints. There’s also a gold village, 25 minutes’ drive from Saariselka, where you can pan for your own gold.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

It’s easy to make dinner the main event in Lapland. Most hotels offer bespoke dining experiences. You can eat by the side of crackling fires inside Lappish wilderness huts in Saariselka and eat in a timbered elves’ cottage in Levi. If you’d rather escape the chill, check out the comedy club in Levi or pop into one of the bars on Saariseläntie in Saariselka to shoot pool.

Lively evenings

Most Lappish hotels offer some form of in-house entertainment. Lots of them put on karaoke nights and others have their own disco. If you want to get out, though, Levi and Rovaniemi have the liveliest nightlife. In Levi, the best clubs with VIP areas have an address on Keskuskuja. In the latter, Koskikatu and Valtakatu bear the brunt of the late night bar and clubbing muscle.

Food & drink

Reindeer

Reindeer is deserving of its own ‘50 ways with’ cookbook. In Lapland, you can try roast reindeer steak, boiled reindeer tongue, reindeer liver pate, reindeer jerky, reindeer pastrami, and reindeer stew. And, you can wash it all down with a glass of reindeer milk.

Lappish cheese

Every traditional Lappish menu worth its salt features a dish made with Lappish cheese. Most commonly, it’s baked in cream and served with a jam, but it can also be used in salads and added to porridge for breakfast. Texture-wise it’s squeaky, like halloumi.

Cloudberries

Cloudberries are similar in shape to a blackberry, but they’re amber-coloured. They’re pretty versatile, and can be used in savoury and sweet dishes. They can be made into a sauce and poured over reindeer steak, or turned into jam and served alongside cheese.

Ghakko

You won’t find plump Warburton-style rolls in the breadbasket when you sit down to dinner in Lapland. Instead, you’ll find sheets of ghakko. Traditionally, this flatbread is baked on a hot stone but, these days, a lot of chefs cheat with a frying pan.

Berry wine

Finland’s winemakers specialise in berry wines. At least 50 Finnish wineries produce the tipple. Berry wine is made slightly differently to grape wine, and extra sugar and yeast is used in the process. The finished product usually contains 13 per cent alcohol, a bit like an old world red.

Average Weather in Lapland

Facts about Lapland

Capital

Rovaniemi

Currency

Euro

(EUR)

Population

183,484

Language

Finnish

Time zone

GMT +2

Flight duration

3 hours 30 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What time of year is best to visit Lapland?

Late November to mid-March is prime time for visiting Lapland – the snow’s deep, Santa’s in town, and the Northern Lights often dance across the sky.

How much is a holiday to Lapland?

Prices can vary, but TUI packages typically start around £800–£1,200 per adult for a three-to-four-night break. That covers flights, accommodation, and some festive extras.

Is three days enough for Lapland?

Yes – three days is the sweet spot, especially for Santa trips. You’ll fit in the must-dos like meeting the man in red, sleigh rides, and maybe even the Northern Lights. If you want more time to explore your snowy surroundings or try out additional experiences – a longer break’s a great shout.

Where are holidays to Lapland?

We fly to five airports across Finnish Lapland, each close to some of the region’s best spots. Kittilä is your gateway to the popular Levi and Ylläs resorts, while Rovaniemi is Santa’s official hometown. Fly into Ivalo for Northern Lights adventures in Saariselkä, head to Kuusamo for the Ruka ski area, or try our new winter 2025 route to Kajaani for off-the-beaten-track Arctic Lakeland escapes.

Where is the best place to see Santa?

Every trip to Lapland with us includes a special visit to see Santa – whether you’re there for a day or staying for a few nights. Each visit is unique, too – from Rovaniemi’s famous Santa Claus Village, to story time with Santa and Mrs Claus in Kuusamo. Or, in Hetta and Pallas, Santa even pops by your hotel.

When should I visit Lapland to see the northern lights?

Your best chance is during the long, dark nights of winter. Our trips run from late November to early January – the perfect time to spot the Northern Lights, especially on clear nights.

How long is the flight?

Flights to Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo and Kuusamo take about three and a half hours. Kajaani and Kittilä are a touch quicker – around three hours.

How much spending money do I need?

About £100–£200 per person is a good ballpark – for meals out, souvenirs, and any extra winter activities. A three-course dinner might cost around £40-£50 per person.

Where's the best place to stay in Lapland?

One snow boot doesn’t fit all here – it really depends on what you’re after. Saariselkä is a top pick for Northern Lights hunters, while Levi’s great if you’re new to skiing or snowboarding – Ruka’s a big ski resort, too. For a taste of Christmas magic, Rovaniemi – the capital – is Santa’s official hometown, and Ylläs is where you’ll find the SnowVillage, complete with ice sculptures. If you’re after a quieter, nature-focused escape, Pallas sits in a national park, and cosy Luosto is a great choice for wide-open wilderness and peaceful forests.

What is included in a Lapland holiday package with TUI?

If you choose a 3 or 4 night stay your flights, transfers, accommodation, thermal clothing, and short taster sessions like sleigh and husky rides are included in your package. Every trip also includes a visit to meet Santa and a festive finale meal.

Is Lapland suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely – TUI Lapland holidays are designed with little ones in mind. Some hotels feature SnowClubs with festive crafts, snow games and family fun – just look out for the snowflake SnowClub logo when booking. Under-fours might find the cold a bit much, though.

Do I need a visa to travel to Lapland from the UK?

No visa is needed for UK citizens travelling to Finland – just make sure your passport is valid for at least three months after you return.

Are transfers included in TUI Lapland holiday packages?

Yes – return airport transfers are part of the package, so it’s all smooth from landing to check-in.

What should I pack for a trip to Lapland in winter?

Thermals, snow boots, a warm coat, gloves, hat, and scarf are essentials. Many hotels have saunas, so don’t forget your swimwear. Even with just a few hours of daylight in winter, sunglasses are handy in the bright snow.

How cold does it get in Lapland and what should I wear?

Temperatures range from –5 °C to –25 °C. Pack warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and accessories to handle the chill comfortably. Snowsuits and boots are provided.

What activities can I do in Lapland besides meeting Santa?

There’s loads to do beyond meeting Santa – think husky sledding and reindeer rides, snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing, and searching for the Northern Lights. Check out some of our top experiences here.

Are husky and reindeer sleigh rides included in the holiday?

Short taster sessions are included in our stay trip packages. If you’re hooked after the taster, longer rides are available to book as extras.

Is Lapland worth visiting if I don’t have children?

Of course – Lapland isn’t just for kids. It’s a bucket list destination for couples, friends, and solo travellers alike. From adrenaline-pumping winter sports and Arctic wildlife to peaceful snowy landscapes and some of the best chances to see the Northern Lights, it’s a must-visit no matter your age.

What kind of hotels or lodges does TUI offer in Lapland?

TUI’s range includes cosy cabins, traditional hotels, and unique glass igloos or Aurora cabins, all with a rustic, authentic Lapland touch that suit a variety of budgets.

Are there glass igloos or Aurora cabins in TUI packages?

Yes – TUI offers unique stays in glass igloos and Aurora cabins, which have large windows or glass roofs so you can watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. We’ve got picks like Iisakki Glass Village in Kuusamo, Aurora Pyramids in Levi, Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, and Santa’s Aurora in Luosto.

Is Full Board or Half Board included in Lapland holidays?

Most packages include Half Board (breakfast and dinner), but you can upgrade in some places if you want all meals sorted.

Are Lapland holidays accessible for people with access-related needs or disabilities?

Most Lapland resorts are not fully wheelchair accessible. The climate can be challenging, and pathways are often covered with thick layers of snow and ice, so it can be difficult to get around. Due to the low temperatures, you may find that electronic mobility aids do not work properly.

We’re unable to supply wheelchair-accessible vehicles for transfers or excursions. Coaches can carry foldable wheelchairs and other small mobility aids and equipment, but you’ll need to be able to use steps to get on and off. 

Rovaniemi Airport is the only airport equipped with an ambi-lift for step-free boarding. Other airports we fly to do not have ambi-lifts, so will require manual lifting by the Airport Assistance team. Please note that none of the airports we fly to currently recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard. Many activities need good strength and balance and getting in and out of sledges or snowmobiles can be difficult. 

Most Lapland activities need good strength and balance. For example, snowmobiling requires you to get on and off the machine, steer, and hold on if you’re a passenger. Sledges are low and not padded, so getting in and out may be difficult. Once sitting, passengers must also have enough body strength to hold themselves in a sitting up position. On husky and reindeer safaris, you’ll usually travel on coaches with steps, and while there are stops, accessible toilets are not available on these trips. 

Is Lapland suitable for young children?

We don’t advise bringing little ones under 4, as temperatures can range from 0°C to -30°C, which can be tough for them to handle.

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